Flint Institute of Music Presents THE NUTCRACKER

The Flint Institute of Music invites the public to revel in the joy and magic of the Nutcracker ballet, a holiday classic and family favorite with professional dancer, Ingrid Silva. The annual production, presenting the combined talents of Flint School of Performing Arts, Collage Dance Collective and the Flint Symphony Orchestra, will take the stage at The Whiting on Saturday, December 1 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, December 2 at 3 p.m.

This year marks the 44th anniversary of the Flint Institute of Music's presentation of the Nutcracker for the greater Flint community. More than 90 dancers from the central region of Michigan and beyond participate in the production. Dancers are from Burton, Davison, Fenton, Flint, Flushing, Gains, Grand Blanc, Holly, Lapeer, Mt. Morris, Montrose and Swartz Creek.

This year's holiday tradition features professional dancers Ingrid Silva & Dylan Santos, and Collage Dance Collective, a professional company dedicated to increasing diversity in classical ballet. Kevin Thomas, Artistic Director of Collage Dance Collective, will be performing the role of Drosselmeyer. Ingrid Silva, Principal Ballerina of Dance Theatre of Harlem in New York City, will performing the role of Sugar Plum Fairy.

FSPA dancers perform under the artistic direction of Karen Mills Jennings, Collage performs under Artistic Director Kevin Thomas, and the Flint Symphony Orchestra will be led by guest conductor Laura Jackson. These Nutcracker performances incorporate collaboration, not just within the school but within the larger area of Central Michigan and beyond-a truly special experience for both performers and audience members alike.

The Flint School of Performing Arts is one of the largest community arts schools in the United States, teaching students in music and dance in a welcoming, student-focused environment. FSPA's Dance Division faculty have earned the high distinction of certification in the American Ballet Theatre National Training Curriculum. The program combines high quality artistic training with the basics of dancer health and child development.

Tickets for these performances are available online or by calling The Whiting Ticket Center at 810-237-7333. Tickets range from $10 to $31, with a $2 student/senior discount.